Cruz Backs Sitton in Railroad Commission Race

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has endorsed Republican Ryan Sitton's bid for railroad commissioner, Sitton’s campaign said Friday.

"Ryan has the right background and experience to ensure that the responsible production of oil and gas in Texas continues unimpeded by unnecessary government interference and regulation," Cruz said in a statement circulated by Sitton's campaign. “I look forward to working with Ryan to develop comprehensive energy policies that will secure Texas and America's energy future."

The announcement comes with less than three weeks left in the race to succeed Barry Smitherman. Sitton, a mechanical engineer from Houston, faces Steve Brown, the former chairman of the Fort Bend Democratic Party. Libertarian Mark Miller, a petroleum engineer, is also on the ballot. 

Sitton is the race’s biggest fundraiser by far. He has taken in more than $446,000 since July, according to filings with the Texas Ethics Commission. He has $200,000 left in his account. 

Brown raised about $2,600 during the same period, with $5,400 still in the bank.

Miller did not raise any money during the past three months. He has $435 left over.